Dawn breaks and Gabriel is still busy at his task. He weights down
some of the thatching on the wheat, just as the heavy rain begins.
Oak, totally drenched, returns to finish the job of protecting the
barley. As he works, he remembers that it was at the same spot,
eight months earlier that he had worked to save the ricks from
catching fire. Finally at s seven o'clock, Oak finishes. He is weary,
but content that he has done a good act for Bathsheba. In the barn
the merry makers from the previous night start stirring and heading
homeward. None of the men, including Troy, is even slightly
concerned about the danger of the rain for the harvest.

Gabriel meets Boldwood on his way home. When Gabriel tells him
that he looked different, Boldwood insists that he is well. Gabriel
inquires whether Boldwood's harvest and ricks are safe. Boldwood
at first seems distracted, but he finally admits that his ricks were
left uncovered and he appears indifferent to the loss. Boldwood's
reply makes Gabriel realize what a shattering effect Bathsheba's
marriage has had on him. Gabriel tries to console Boldwood, who
breaks down and confesses to Gabriel that he has lost faith in
God's mercy. He attempts to control himself and assures Gabriel
that he will recover from his loss and soon forget it all; however,
he asks Gabriel not to mention their meeting and conversation.

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Notes

Gabriel's closeness to nature allows him to successfully predict the
storm and protect the crop. Boldwood is not gifted with an
understanding of nature in the same manner of Oak. He allows his
farm to suffer and makes no effort to cover his crops. In the same
manner, he refuses to adjust to the reality about Bathsheba. His
sadness over her loss is permeating his whole being; it has taken
away his will to act and it shows in his pained expressions.

The chapter underlines Oak's uniqueness as a farm worker by his
contrast to the complete disregard the workers show for the
uncovered ricks. He is the only man on the farm who is in tune
with and appreciates the fullness of nature. True to the name of
Oak, he has a unique strength and can bend before the wind and
not be destroyed. An adverse situation only helps to bring out the
very best in his character.